On 23^rd September 2024, MCM College, University of Macau was delighted to invite Dr. Lee Kin Kei, a Non-Resident Fellow (Senior Instructor of Faculty of Law) to deliver an engaging talk on law study. Dr. Lee provided valuable learning strategies and a comprehensive overview of the five-year law programme, including its core subjects, exam techniques, study skills and career prospects.

Dr. Lee emphasized that while studying law is challenging, maintaining the original intention for choosing this field and a positive mindset can drive students to persevere. The session concluded with senior law students sharing their learning experiences and tips, which freshmen found extremely helpful.  The talk ended on a high note with an interactive Q&A session, where attendees eagerly asked questions and gained further insights.

On the evening of 24th September, 2024, MCM College Master of University of Macau, Professor Kwok-cheung, Cheung welcomed distinguished guests, freshmen and upper-classmen to a traditional Commencement High Table ‘Gaudie’. Gaudium, a term derived from Latin which is a sign of enjoyment or merry-making, typically redolent of celebratory student life in ancient universities Oxford and Cambridge, St Andrews and Aberdeen, as well as the Universities of Durham and Reading.

Distinguished keynote speakers included Prof. Wei Ge, Vice Rector (Research), Prof. Wei Pan, MCMC Senior Fellow, Chair Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences, and Prof. Handong Sun, MCMC Senior Fellow, Distinguished Professor, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering. Their thought-provoking and inspiring speeches covered knowledge integration, and the significance of collaborating with others to work as a team in areas of the science and social science, as well as in today’s fast-changing world.

As Prof. Cheung addressed faculty and students, he also warmly welcomed four highly esteemed guests to the event: Prof. Lianghuo Fan, Chair Professor, Dean, Faculty of Education; Prof. Jun Yu, Chair Professor, Dean, Faculty of Business Administration; Prof. Zikang Tang, Chair Professor, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering; and Prof. Xingzhong Yu, Chair Professor, Faculty of Law.

Special performances at High Table included Chinese Modern Dance by Lina Huang and Olivia Huang. This was followed by a piano recital by Prof. Zidong Zhou, and Resident Fellow, Dr. Peggy Lau. Shortly after the main course was served, MCMC students presented an Excerpt from the “Carmen Fantasy”, Georges Bizet, featuring Luke Linhan Lyu (Saxophone), Belly BaoQinyi Wang (Piano) and featuring Resident Tutor, Stephanie Rachell Andaluz Almandoz Ramos (Vocals) and Kristina Jingxian Li (Spanish dance).

The event was truly, a memorable ‘Gaudie’, with much enjoyment and merry-making.

“The sharing from other professors during High Table not only broadened my understanding of science, but also highlighted diverse perspectives. I felt inspired and motivated, with a renewed appreciation for collective intelligence we achieved when we united our efforts towards a common goal.” Lulu Liu (College Affiliate – FSS)                                                                                

“Participating in the high-table event alongside students and professors filled me with immense pride as we collectively showcased our skills to the community. Engaging professors and fellow students in meaningful discussions about knowledge, careers, hobbies, and personal interests was achieved, creating a vibrant atmosphere brimming with intellectual curiosity and mutual respect.” – Stephanie Ramos (Resident Tutor)

“At the high table event, we listened to guests’ speeches while dressed in formal attire, reflecting the formality and solemnity of the event. In the process of enjoying western cuisine, we not only learned dining etiquette, but also enhanced our skills and ability to communicate with others. It also provided me with a platform to showcase my talents and improve myself.” – Kristina Li (Freshman)

Opening speech by College Master Prof. Kwok Cheung CHEUNG

Keynote speaker, Prof. Wei Ge, Vice Rector (Research)

Keynote speaker, Prof. Wei Pan, Chair Professor, and MCMC Senior Fellow, Faculty of Social Sciences

Keynote speaker, Prof. Handong Sun, Distinguished Professor, MCMC Senior Fellow, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering

Guests of honor at High Table

Chinese Modern Dance Performance

Piano Recital Performance

“Carmen Fantasy” Performance – Vocals

“Carmen Fantasy” Performance – Spanish Dance

In order to provide students with a deeper understanding of Macau’s World Heritage Sites and House origin, the Dom Pedro V House of Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau, organized a “Dom Pedro V Cultural Excursion: Discovering Treasure” event on September 21, 2024. During this two-and-a-half-hour event, students explored sites including the Lisboa Grand Hotel, Senado Square, Leal Senado Building, and the Dom Pedro V Theatre. This experience allowed students to appreciate Macau as a city where Eastern and Western cultures converge, fostering a sense of identity and belonging to Dom Pedro V House at MCM College.

In addition to visiting landmarks, the leaders of Dom Pedro V House organized a “Treasure Hunt” for students to participate in. Students formed teams to take photos at different scenic spots, competing for rankings to win different little gifts. While enjoying their drinks, students reflected on the rich history and culture of Macau, this small city.

Text: Hoi Kai Cheng

More than 30 members of Camões House set off early Saturday morning on a cultural excursion to the White Dove’s Nest of Camões Garden. The event was hosted by Resident Tutor, Stephanie Ramos, and accompanied by House Master Dr. Manuel Noronha.

The famous landmark, which was previously part of a mansion owned by wealthy Portuguese merchant, D. Manuel Boaventura Lourenço Pereira. The property was later passed on to son-in-law, Lourenço Caetano Marques, who was fond of keeping pigeons. It was said that many pigeons were often seen perched on the ledges and eaves of the park villa which resembled an enormous pigeon’s nest from afar. Therefore, the iconic park from then on was commonly known in Chinese as “White Pigeon Nest Garden”. Marques highly admired Portuguese poet Luís de Camões (1524-1580), who is said to have completed a part of his epic poem “Os Lusíadas” in a grotto of the park villa back then. Marques had a bronze bust erected in honour of Camões, and placed in a grotto built with three huge rocks in 1866. Inscribed on the front of the stone pedestal of the bust, are the first three stanzas of the first canto of “Os Lusíadas”, while the Chinese translation was inscribed on the back.

In 1885, the government acquired the property and opened it to the public.

“When I heard of the white pigeon nest park, I thought it was just a park, I did not realize that it was such an historical and unique place. There are many old people walking around and dancing in the park. This world heritage building is the first villa style garden residence in Macau – the white pink mixed building, coupled with dark green doors and windows is very special and amazing.

Text: Lídia

On 14^th September 2024, Mandarin House of Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau organised a fascinating cultural excursion to trace the historical origins of the patriot Zheng Guan Ying’s former residence. The Mandarin’s House covers an area of 4,000 square meters and is one of the largest family residences in Macau. It boasts 60 rooms and perfectly showcases elements of traditional Guangdong’s architectural style while seamlessly blending both Asian and Western architectural influences.

The guide provided detailed explanations about how the Mandarin’s House was initiated by Zheng Guan Ying’s father, Zheng Wen Rui, in 1869. When the residence was completed, it offered a panoramic view of the inner harbor, allowing visitors to gaze upon the various ships coming in and out of Macau. It was within this courtyard-style mansion that Zheng Guan Ying composed his masterpiece, “Words of Warning in Times of Prosperity”. This book was read by influential figures, including emperors, Dr. Sun Yat Sen, and Chairman Mao.

This cultural excursion not only deepened participants’ understanding of Zheng Guan Ying’s life and contributions but also fostered a greater appreciation for Macau’s World Cultural Heritage.

Text : Yoyo Tu (Resident Assistant)

On 14^th September 2024, Alice Hong, resident fellow, and students of Guia House at Moon Chun Memorial College, Univerisity of Macau organized a cultural tour: “Tracing the Guia Lighthouse – Guardian of Macao Coast.” Participants first hiked along Guia Hill Trail, which not only provided physical exercise, but also allowed them to appreciate the natural scenery along the way. Afterwards, they visited the Guia Lighthouse complex. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the Guia Lighthouse, Guia Military Fort, and Guia Chapel, especially with explanations from a guide from Macau Cultural Affairs Bureau. This excursion enriched students’ knowledge of Macao’s World Cultural Heritage, and enhanced their appreciation of Macau’s local history, architecture, and religious culture, fostering a greater admiration for this small city.

Text: Jacky Yang (Residential Assistant)

To promote Chinese traditional culture and celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, the House Association of Moon Chun Memorial College and Choi Kai Yau College, University of Macau jointly organized a unique Mid-Autumn Festival celebration on 16^th September, 2024. The event was thoughtfully designed to incorporate traditional Mid-Autumn Festival elements, including DIY snow skin mooncakes, lantern riddles, pitch-pot games, lacquer fan painting, sachet making, and outdoor silhouette activities.  Additionally, there were exciting band performances showcasing the collaboration between two colleges and enjoying the festival together.

This event was not only a joyful gathering but also an excellent opportunity to blend traditional culture with modern life. The celebration attracted nearly 300 participants, including college masters, resident fellows, non-resident fellows and affiliates. They celebrated this important traditional festival together while experiencing Chinese traditional culture.

Since Moon Chun Memorial College’s inception in 2013, its musicians have been strengthening the strong town-and-gown relationship MCMC enjoys with the local Macau community.

This year, University of Macau Collegium MCMC provided music for the Cocktail Reception for FMCC charity Gala “A Journey Through Time & Space”. Led by MCM College Non Resident Fellow Dr Katy Ho Weatherly and College Resident Fellow Dr Peggy Lau, the ensemble developed its musicianship and gained considerable confidence and valuable experience from being invited to perform live at a high-profile event, through playing a series of carefully chosen works by Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Piazolla, Pachelbel, and Music from the Movies. With their highly professional performances, the ensemble won plaudits from all attendees.By engaging students in a diversity of events, MCM College seeks to nurture collective talent of students in Arts, Culture, Internationality, English language proficiency and Sporting prowess.

On Friday evening, 20^th September, 2024, MCM College invited Senior College Fellow, Prof. Glenn McCartney, Associate Dean (FBA) to meet, engage and empower students: instilling in them the belief that they too, have the potential to become successful individuals.

Prof. McCartney ignited the event with an electrifying drum cover of “Enter Sandman“, a popular Heavy Metal song by Metallica. Prof. McCartney perfectly timed the hard rock, tom groove in the song’s introduction. His syncopated crash/snare accents instantly thrusted Metallica’s signature rhythmic drum track. The bass drum with steady kicks pumped up the rhythm, bringing out the high and middle toms’ strokes to mix in the backbeat.

As Prof. McCartney began to draw his listeners’ attention to his storytelling framework of music, Kung Fu, and personal growth, he pointed out several occasions in which challenges were a demonstration of resilience, just as failures were viewed as valuable lessons for personal growth. Success however, are moments to proudly celebrate with others.

Prof. McCartney reminded students of three basic attributes: never quit (despite facing insurmountable difficulties and challenges); be careful not to become complacent; and finally, inspire others to learn, grow and always stay positive.  Prof. McCartney’s varied interests reflects his extensive energy poured into other things as well as academic work. He reminded students to step out of their comfort zone in order to achieve success.

MCM College sincerely appreciates and applauds Prof. McCartney for serving as more than just a motivation speaker. His presence was a beacon of empathy and understanding as he encouraged students to open up about their difficulties, worries, and fears, creating a safe space to express their vulnerabilities without judgment.

On September 18th 2024, Camões House Resident Assistant, Thomas Feng organised a successful tennis experiential learning session at UM’s outdoor tennis courts. The activity began with Coach He Yuyang introducing the fundamental rules of tennis. His clear explanations helped everyone understand the game’s structure and scoring system.

Coach He demonstrated basic tennis techniques, including the proper grip for securing the racket, stance, and techniques to hit the ball. Participants eagerly practiced those skills, whilst gaining immediate hands-on experience. The atmosphere was lively, and  everyone seemed so eager to learn and improve.

The highlight of the event was the practice matches, where participants paired up to engage in friendly rallies. This not only enhanced their skills but also fostered camaraderie among players.

In short, the event was an excellent opportunity for students to encapsulate several core competencies such as knowledge integration as well as teamwork and healthy lifestyle within a supportive environment.